What Started World War 2: Timeline

The cause of World War Two is often attributed solely to the invasion of Poland by Germany, which resulted in the deceleration of war by France and Britain. In this timeline, the events leading up to this invasion are explored between the dates of 1933 and 1939 in order to better understand the motivations behind it. Sources such as a 1939 newspaper and many more headlines have been collected from multiple, major newspapers reporting at the time, as well as materials from historians that helped accurately inform this timeline of events.

World War II Causes: Important Events Between 1933-39

The question of whom or what started world war two cannot be pin pointed to a signal individual, or specific event. Please see below for a timeline of pre WW2 events that likely contributed to the eventual beginning of World War 2. For a more detailed narrative exploring the most likely causes a little deeper then please read What started World War Two post.

1933

January 30: President Hindenburg appoints Hitler as chancellor.

January to February: Japan conquer the Jehol province in Chinese Manchuria.

February 24-25: League of Nations condemns Japan and calls for an end to the Japanese occupation of Manchuria. The Japanese delegation subsequently walk out.

March 5: Nazis secure 44% of the vote in Germany’s election.

March 23: Enabling Act is passed, which gives dictatorial powers to Hitler.

March 27: Japan announces its intention to leave the League of Nations.